"The control he had of the ball was unbelievable. His goal against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League final in 2002 was the standout moment for me from his career - the way he watched the ball and then struck that volley - it was a magnificent goal. He was a player that I just loved watching. Very few footballers, if any, will ever be like him.

"I was lucky enough to meet him a few years ago. It was an amazing experience and I made sure I got a photo. He is a great person. We had a bit of a chat, but I was a little star struck! He must go down as one of the game's best ever players who is liked and respected by so many."